the Lantern April 2017

April 2017 SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

1

For complete calendar visit www.presentationhs.org/calendar

2

3 From Stage and Screen, 7:30 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

9

LAMP Meeting, 7 p.m., Jenvey House

Fashion Show Model Segment Training, 3-9 p.m., Miller Athletic Complex

10

Easter Break

30

5

6 Parent Board Meeting, 7 p.m., Library

Fashion Show Model Segment Training, 3-9 p.m., Miller Athletic Complex

Speech Festival, 11:05 a.m., Miller Athletic Complex

Fashion Show Final Run-Through, 5:30-11 p.m., Santa Clara Convention Center Booster Board Mtg., 7-9 p.m., Library

12

13

Financial Aid Night for Junior Parents, 7 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

17

23

TADA!, 6:30 p.m., Reception Room

11

From Stage and Screen, 2 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

16

4

18 Easter Break

24

Board of Trustees Meeting, 3:30 p.m., Library

Fashion Show Committee Victory Party, 7 p.m., Library

Fashion Show, 11 a.m., 6 p.m., Santa Clara Convention Center

From Stage and Screen, 7:30 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

14

20

Easter Break

25

7

Easter Break

19 Easter Break

26 Incoming Frosh BBQ, 5:30 p.m., Courtyard Alumnae Council, 6 p.m., Jenvey House

SATURDAY

8 From Stage and Screen Gala, 5:30 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

Easter Break

Easter Break

the

LANTERN Presentation High School Parent Newsletter | April 2017

15

21

College 27Admissions Case

From Stage and Screen, 7:30 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

Easter Break

22 Easter Break

28

Studies, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis High School

Senior Choir Showcase, 7 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

Math & Science Colloquium, 7 p.m., Marian Stuckey Student Center

May Day Prayer Service, 9:30 a.m., Courtyard

Easter Break

29

APRIL 2017 Presentation High School The Lantern 2281 Plummer Avenue San Jose, CA 95125 The Lantern | April 2017 1

Athletics

By Stacey Mallison | Athletics Director

Varsity Home Games

Hello, Panthers!

Letter from the Principal

Parent Board

Dear Parents and Friends of Presentation,

That bright, warm (and oh so unfamiliar) object in sky is a sure sign that the school year is winding down. But don’t worry, there are still plenty of activities to finish the year off strong.

By Mary Miller '72 | Principal

The Board of Trustees recently approved the tuition for 2017-18.

It will be $19,580, representing an increase of 4.5%. We went into this budgeting process with the resolve to be as sensitive and conservative as possible with tuition. We are also committed to a commensurate increase in financial aid to assist families who need our help. Financial aid decisions were made in March and will be announced shortly. As you well know, Pres is faithful to its mission to educate and qualified young woman regardless of her ability to pay; we expect to award $2.3 million next year.

We are also dedicated to hiring and retaining the finest teachers and staff. That means providing a salary that enables them to live and work in the Bay Area. While the increase is relatively modest, it will maintain our competitive compensation package.

Tuition contracts must be turned in on or before April 10. For all returning students, a non-refundable deposit of $1,500 (that will be applied to tuition) is due May 1. Please meet this deadline as it reserves your daughter’s place for 2017-18. I am always available to discuss any financial concerns you may have; missing deadlines will only impede my ability to help you.

By the time this reaches you, we will be in the final weeks of Lent, preparing for the most holy and blessed celebration in the Catholic tradition—the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. I do hope you enjoy this sacred time of year with family and friends, reflecting on the hope and promise Easter brings and celebrating those relationships that exemplify God’s unconditional love for each one of us.

Happy Easter!

By Joel Dibble | Parent Board President | jcdibble17@gmail.com

First up is the 2017 Presentation Fashion Show, Let Yourself Blossom. What started with a couple of sewing machines and a handful of models in the Marian Stuckey Student Center has morphed into a spectacular production that is the main fundraiser for the Endowment for Financial Aid. Everyone is invited to participate by attending either the lunch or dinner show, making a donation, or volunteering to help out on the day of the show.

You can purchase tickets online or find more information at www.presentationhs.org/fashionshow. There is no school on April 7, so students are encouraged to attend and sit in the Student Gallery.

Next up is the annual Presentation Golf Tournament on Friday, May 12 at Cinnabar Hills Golf Club. It is a spectacular course and an excellent event for beginners and aficionados alike! Even if you are not a golfer, you can lend your support to this fun event in other ways! Please contact Matt Sunseri at matt.sunseri1@yahoo.com or Dave Bustamante at davbust58@comcast.net if you would like to help. Details and tickets are available on the Pres website under the Events tab.

The Presentation basketball and soccer teams both earned championship titles in the 2017 CCS DII Tournament. Both teams showed great resiliency and determination this winter as they battled through challenging schedules and injuries. Despite the obstacles, our Panthers rose to the challenge, stayed focused on their goals, and worked hard everyday to become CCS champions. Make sure to congratulate the teams and coaching staff for their success!

In addition to their success on the court and on the field, the basketball and soccer teams did an excellent job of managing their academics. In addition to practicing throughout school holidays, our winter sports teams must prepare for and take their final exams in the middle of the season. The basketball team earned a team GPA of 3.36 while our soccer team earned a team GPA of 3.55. Way to go, Panthers!

We are also very proud of our student-athletes who earned WCAL All-League Honors: Basketball • Ava Williams ’18: Second Team • Sharon Roldan ’18: Honorable Mention Soccer • Devin Ferguson ’18: First Team • Jayne Cowell ’18: First Team, WCAL Co-Midfielder of the Year • Amanda Avila ’19: Second Team • Jordan Karr ’20: Second Team • Emily Cook ’17: Honorable Mention

Swimming & Diving Thursday, April 6 vs. Sacred Heart Cathedral | 3 p.m.

Wednesday, April 26 vs. Archbishop Mitty High School | 3 p.m.

Track & Field Wednesday, April 5 vs. St. Francis High School at Bellarmine | 3 p.m.

Wednesday, April 26 vs. Sacred Heart Cathedral at Bellarmine | 3 p.m.

Softball Thursday, April 6 vs. Archbishop Mitty High School | 4 p.m.

Tuesday, April 25 vs. St. Ignatius College Prep | 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 27 vs. St. Francis High School | 4 p.m.

Friday, April 28 vs. Homestead High School | 4 p.m.

Please join me in congratulating the Athletic Department’s Volunteers of the Year, Tom and Patty Evans. As active Booster board members, this duo has been extremely helpful and supportive of our Athletic Department. We are very thankful to be part of this amazing Presentation community where so many people are willing to lend a helping hand.

Go Panthers!

2

The Lantern | April 2017

www.presentationhs.org 7

Fashion Club

By Barb Purdy | Department Chair, Visual and Performing Arts Seven years ago, three students formed the Fashion Club at Presentation to learn more about the creative and business aspects of the fashion industry. The club gave rise to a new tradition at Presentation: featuring student-designed dresses and outfits in the annual fashion show benefiting the Endowment for Financial Aid. This year, 18 students will continue that tradition. Starting with sketches, the girls design and sew their own pieces for the runway.

The club is composed of freshmen and upper class officers.

This year, our focus has been on learning how to design our own clothes. This includes learning how to draw fashion figures and learning how to use a sewing machine. In the fall, Dori from Camp Fashionista inspired us by teaching us the correct proportions of the body for fashion illustration. Currently, our club is working on our service project, “Little Dresses for Africa.”

This organization provides relief for the most vulnerable children of Central Africa. Fashion Club members are using pillowcases to create dresses for this organization. Why pillowcases? The organization chose pillowcases because they were simple to sew, have hems and side seams and come in bright colors.

Dance Team

By Sara Fugate | Dance Team We are extremely proud of the Presentation Dance Team’s national championship-winning performance at the Contest of Champions in Orlando, Florida. For the third consecutive year, the team won overall titles in the medium and extra small divisions. Here is the complete list of the team’s success at nationals: • National Championship Titles: Extra Small and Medium • First Place: Medium Character, Extra Small Jazz, Character Dance • Second Place: Medium Jazz, Medium Lyrical • Third Place: Extra Small Contemporary Auditions for the 2017-18 team will be held June 5-9. For more information, email Sara Fugate at sfugate@presentationhs.org.

Our Spring Dance Concert will be held May 10-12 in the Valenzuela Theater. Enjoy performances by our national championship-winning Presentation Dance Team, Presentation Dance Company and our amazing third and fourth period dancers. Tickets will be available on April 10 at www.presentationhs.org/boxoffice.

Performing Arts

By Jim Houle | Performing Arts Director The Blue Plaid Players Take the Stage Don’t miss the latest musical revue from our loyal band of fundraising performers: From Stage and Screen, a tribute to the Golden Age musicals of Broadway and Hollywood. This production, written and produced by Dan D’ali, is being presented in our Valenzuela Theater March 31-April 9 and features vocal, dance and comedic talent from Pres alumnae, parents and our energetic theater boosters.

All six performances raise money for our thriving performing arts program! Visit www.presentationhs.org/boxoffice to purchase tickets. See you there!

Theater Camp at Pres Do you know a boy or girl between the ages of 12 and 17 who would benefit from some self-esteem, self-presentation or teamwork skills? Our summer theater camp, PresRep, is just the place.

Now open for registration online, this five-week camp runs 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday, from June 19-July 23, 2017.

Students will receive roles in our mainstage production, the Dr. Seuss-inspired musical: Seussical, as well as a second non-musical play. Additionally, classes are offered in comedy/improv, acting technique, dance and technical theater. Our campus is a creative, safe place for your student to spend his or her summer days. Lots of famous friendships are made and maintained as a result of the bonds made at PresRep, so why not consider our summer theater camp for your student? Simply go to our website, www.presrep.com, for all the details. Register your student today!

6

The Lantern | April 2017

Community Involvement

Counseling

During six weeks in the spring, Presentation students make crafts, sell baked goods and organize fundraisers to support the efforts of the Presentation Sisters in Nicaragua and Guatemala. Below, Claudia Suez ’17 reflects on her service trip to Nicaragua and the difference our Mission Drive efforts makes in the communities the Sisters serve.

We’ve all been there: the school/dance/mall/movie taxi. The door opens and closes as your teen relaxes into the security and serenity of your car. You query, “How was school/the presentation/the dance/movie/workout?” The scowl that answers you is a clear non-verbal message. “Fine,” she retorts as she dissolves into Snapchat.

Every year, I have helped raise money for Mission Drive, but I never stopped to think about why our donations mattered or who the funds affected. But, when I was given the opportunity to travel to Nicaragua with Presentation, I witnessed the impact firsthand.

Communication with your teenager is often a push-pull situation.

And no wonder! In their inevitable quest for independence from you (you want that, right?!) and as they build their own private sphere of existence, pulling conversation from your teen may be an ongoing challenge.

By Lindsay Swoboda | Director of Community Involvement

Packed in a truck with nine other girls as we drove over boulders and dirt roads, we visited a high school in Somotillo Each day, the students and staff did their best with only the bare necessities. To me, unfairness of it felt like a slap in the face. Yet, their lack of resources did not curb their creativity and dedication. Programs were tailored to help students learn about agriculture and productivity. It was impressive to see students using school time to learn more about their livelihood and craft.

Later, we visited San Ignacio de Loyola, a nearby elementary school. I have never been welcomed with such love and admiration. In addition to homemade banners with our names on them, the students presented each of us with acrostic poems that spelled out our names. The girl who wrote my poem is named Nidia. She reminded me of myself when I was in the fifth grade— a little on the quieter side with her dark brown hair pulled back. I can’t put into words what I felt as she read her poem to me. What struck me most was the sincerity of her words, particularly two lines: “Corazon lleno de amor” (Heart filled with love) and “Ahora y siempre te recordaremos” (Now and always we will remember you). In that moment, the sheltered bubble I have been living in my whole life burst. It clicked. I realized that all we donate and all of our tremendous effort during Mission Drive affects these students directly.

I went to Nicaragua for the service, the people, and to experience a community filled with love and compassion. I came back being able to find happiness in my surroundings, my family and my friends rather than finding happiness in materialistic things. Our work here at Presentation makes a difference thousands of miles away. Thank you for your support and generosity.

By Jean Meyer | College Counselor

But there is hope. Michael Riera, Ph.D, one of the country’s foremost authorities on understanding teens, and author of Staying Connected to Your Teenager, offers these tricks on keeping conversational with your teen: • Make a one-on-one dinner date with her to a special restaurant (not one of your usual places). Invent an occasion if you have to. Then, order for one another to get the conversation going.

• Give your teen a fair ration of “detox time” in the car.

Once at home, don’t despair when she disappears into the sanctity of her hallowed bedroom. This is completely age-appropriate behavior. Give her some time before you knock on the door.

• Model conversational behavior with other family members.

Put down your devices, especially at the dinner table.

• Parents of juniors and seniors will want to talk about college. Rather than pepper them with questions all week, set aside a mutually agreed upon time (e.g. Sunday at 7 p.m.) for twenty minutes to ask questions and to offer aid and support.

• Be there. Even if you are dead tired, make yourself available to your night owl teen--who often prove to be the most conversational at the most inconvenient times.

Be especially available during relaxed transition times (holidays, school vacations) and as they start or finish a new venture (e.g. job or travel).

• When all else fails, write them a note and slip it under their door. “I really appreciate the patience you showed with your sister today. She looks up to you so much and you are a great role model to her.” Don’t be surprised if you get a note in return!

Take heart. Though it may rarely be evident, you and your opinions do matter to your teen. You’ll probably never hear it directly, but know it to be true. Focus on your connections to your teen through patient communication practices.

www.presentationhs.org 3

Panther Pride Announcements

By Tim Case | Vice Principal, Student Activities

The students at Pres continue to shine! Check out the accomplishments of our programs and teams this past month: Congratulations to the Women’s Advocacy Club for its successful “Dress a Girl” event. Club members sewed 70 dresses for young women in Nicaragua as part of the Dress a Girl Around the World campaign by Hope 4 Women International.

Congratulations to Panther Pride for raising $1,000 for Mission Drive by hosting the third annual Dunk 4 Nuns faculty vs. students basketball game at Pres.

25 DECA team members competed in exams, role-plays and written events at the California DECA State Career Development Conference in San Jose. Rithu Paramesh ’20 scored a 92% on her role play and placed fifth in the content knowledge test with an 89%.

Attendance

College Counseling

Here are some friendly reminders from the Attendance Office:

As May first looms closer, National College Decision Day can become a prominent topic of conversation in many households, and the halls of Presentation are no exception. The United States map is hung on the wall just outside of our offices, and excited seniors stream in and out, to write their names and college destinations on a flag to pin for all to see. Underclassmen hover around the display seeing the opportunities our students have ahead of them, waiting for the moment to be theirs one day.

By Catherine Furtado ’06 | Registrar

If your daughter is absent or late: • Please call the Attendance Office at (408) 266-1060 no later than 9 a.m.

• Your daughter is considered absent if she arrives after 8 a.m. (unless she has a free period) and will need a parent note when she checks into the Attendance Office.

• All absences require a written note signed by the parent the day she returns to school. Faxes and emails are not accepted.

If your daughter needs to leave early: In the rare instance when your daughter needs to leave school for an appointment, please send her to the Attendance Office before school begins with a note from you stating the reason she needs to leave school and the time of her dismissal. She will be given an early dismissal notice from the Attendance Secretary. When she returns to school from the appointment she must check back into school with the Attendance Office.

For further information, please review the detailed attendance policy in your daughter’s academic planner. If you have any other questions, please contact the Attendance Office at (408) 266-1060 or by email at cfurtado@presentationhs.org.

4

The Lantern | April 2017

By MaryLynne Rodriguez | Director of College Counseling

Now that this rite of passage has finally arrived, the College Counseling Department celebrates our seniors’ trials and tribulations with what we fondly call the “Sweet Senior Shred.”

Held on May 3 at lunch in the courtyard, the seniors are invited to shred the denials and rejection letters they received during the college admissions process. Each shred is accompanied by an ice cream bar to congratulate students on their college choices. We hope this simple act conveys our department’s unending support and sense of pride in our students.

As parents of seniors, we extend to you our gratitude and congratulations for being your daughter’s support system. You helped them navigate a process that has been both trying and rewarding. We want our students to be proud of their choices, and your voice is the primary one they hear as they arrive at the finish line this month. Thank you for providing a voice of reason and support; their sense of pride is a direct result of your own.

We hope you can create your own “sweet senior shred” moment with your daughter--one you will fondly look back together upon for years to come.

A special shout-out goes to our Community Involvement February Service Stars, Taylor Togami ’18 and Kiana Martin ’20.

Both volunteered at Martha’s Kitchen, a local agency that provides hot meals to those who are hungry in the community.

Congratulations to the Speech and Debate team for its strong showings at the Stanford Invitational, the Cal Round Robin, Berkeley Invitational, Coast Forensic League final preliminary tournament and the Coast Forensic League State Qualifier in Individual Events. Highlights include:

• Laurenn Vives ’18 and Megan Munce ’18 were octa-finalists (top 16 out of 200+ teams) in public forum and earned their second bid to the Tournament of Champions! Megan also finished in sixth place in expository speaking.

• Amy Santos ’17 was the seventh overall speaker in Lincoln-Douglas debate out of more than 200 competitors and advanced to elimination rounds.

• Aarushi Sahejpal ’18 was a semi-finalist in congressional debate.

Coast Forensic League Individual Events Tournament • Shannon Miranda ’20 finished first in expository speaking.

• Kaitlyn Sierra ’17 finished second in expository speaking.

• Anisha Reimert ’19 was second in humorous interpretation.

• Aarushi Sahejpal ’18 finished fifth in national extemp.

• Samika Kikkeri ’17 finished sixth in international extemp.

Coast Forensic League State Qualifier: Individual Events Kaitlyn Sierra ’17 was the tournament champion in expository speaking and will move on to the State Tournament in April!

Stanford Invitational • Kaitlyn Sierra ’17 was the tournament champion in expository speaking.

• Talla Khelghati ’17 and Manush Mobarhan ’17 were semi-finalists and finished third in public forum.

• Aarushi Sahejpal ’18 was a finalist in congressional debate.

• Samika Kikkeri ’17 was a finalist in international extemp.

• The team finished in seventh place overall among all schools attending.

California Round Robin Talla Khelghati ’17 and Manush Mobarhan ’17 were semi-finalists in public forum among some of the elite teams across the country!

Berkeley Invitational • Kaitlyn Sierra ’17 was the tournament champion in Expository Speaking.

• Talla Khelghati ’17 and Manush Mobarhan ’17 were quarter-finalists in public forum, earning their fifth bid to the Tournament of Champions and solidifying their place in Presentation Debate history with the most bids of any individual or team ever! Talla was the third overall speaker and Manush was the sixth speaker out of more than 400 competitors at the tournament!

Campus Ministry

By Claire Hansen | Director of Campus Ministry This month begins with our final Junior Retreat of the year at the beautiful Presentation Center in Los Gatos. Led by senior peer ministers and a team of faculty, this overnight retreat is focused on growing in faith, prayer, integrity and commitment.

Another opportunity for prayer and reflection will be our all-school Holy Week Prayer Service on April 11. This year’s service will include a washing of the feet, which is taken from Jesus’ Last Supper in the Gospel of John. All parents are welcome to attend our school masses and prayer services.

After we return from Easter vacation, we will celebrate May Day (a little early) with an all-school assembly on April 28. This beautiful Presentation tradition honors the Blessed Virgin Mary with a prayer service focused on celebrating her “Yes!” to God. All are welcome.

Finally, keep an eye out for our retreat registration form which will be mailed to the homes of rising sophomores, juniors and seniors.

There are two retreat dates for each grade level. These retreats are free and open to students of all faith traditions. They are popular and fill up quickly, so get your forms in by the end of May.

www.presentationhs.org 5

Panther Pride Announcements

By Tim Case | Vice Principal, Student Activities

The students at Pres continue to shine! Check out the accomplishments of our programs and teams this past month: Congratulations to the Women’s Advocacy Club for its successful “Dress a Girl” event. Club members sewed 70 dresses for young women in Nicaragua as part of the Dress a Girl Around the World campaign by Hope 4 Women International.

Congratulations to Panther Pride for raising $1,000 for Mission Drive by hosting the third annual Dunk 4 Nuns faculty vs. students basketball game at Pres.

25 DECA team members competed in exams, role-plays and written events at the California DECA State Career Development Conference in San Jose. Rithu Paramesh ’20 scored a 92% on her role play and placed fifth in the content knowledge test with an 89%.

Attendance

College Counseling

Here are some friendly reminders from the Attendance Office:

As May first looms closer, National College Decision Day can become a prominent topic of conversation in many households, and the halls of Presentation are no exception. The United States map is hung on the wall just outside of our offices, and excited seniors stream in and out, to write their names and college destinations on a flag to pin for all to see. Underclassmen hover around the display seeing the opportunities our students have ahead of them, waiting for the moment to be theirs one day.

By Catherine Furtado ’06 | Registrar

If your daughter is absent or late: • Please call the Attendance Office at (408) 266-1060 no later than 9 a.m.

• Your daughter is considered absent if she arrives after 8 a.m. (unless she has a free period) and will need a parent note when she checks into the Attendance Office.

• All absences require a written note signed by the parent the day she returns to school. Faxes and emails are not accepted.

If your daughter needs to leave early: In the rare instance when your daughter needs to leave school for an appointment, please send her to the Attendance Office before school begins with a note from you stating the reason she needs to leave school and the time of her dismissal. She will be given an early dismissal notice from the Attendance Secretary. When she returns to school from the appointment she must check back into school with the Attendance Office.

For further information, please review the detailed attendance policy in your daughter’s academic planner. If you have any other questions, please contact the Attendance Office at (408) 266-1060 or by email at cfurtado@presentationhs.org.

4

The Lantern | April 2017

By MaryLynne Rodriguez | Director of College Counseling

Now that this rite of passage has finally arrived, the College Counseling Department celebrates our seniors’ trials and tribulations with what we fondly call the “Sweet Senior Shred.”

Held on May 3 at lunch in the courtyard, the seniors are invited to shred the denials and rejection letters they received during the college admissions process. Each shred is accompanied by an ice cream bar to congratulate students on their college choices. We hope this simple act conveys our department’s unending support and sense of pride in our students.

As parents of seniors, we extend to you our gratitude and congratulations for being your daughter’s support system. You helped them navigate a process that has been both trying and rewarding. We want our students to be proud of their choices, and your voice is the primary one they hear as they arrive at the finish line this month. Thank you for providing a voice of reason and support; their sense of pride is a direct result of your own.

We hope you can create your own “sweet senior shred” moment with your daughter--one you will fondly look back together upon for years to come.

A special shout-out goes to our Community Involvement February Service Stars, Taylor Togami ’18 and Kiana Martin ’20.

Both volunteered at Martha’s Kitchen, a local agency that provides hot meals to those who are hungry in the community.

Congratulations to the Speech and Debate team for its strong showings at the Stanford Invitational, the Cal Round Robin, Berkeley Invitational, Coast Forensic League final preliminary tournament and the Coast Forensic League State Qualifier in Individual Events. Highlights include:

• Laurenn Vives ’18 and Megan Munce ’18 were octa-finalists (top 16 out of 200+ teams) in public forum and earned their second bid to the Tournament of Champions! Megan also finished in sixth place in expository speaking.

• Amy Santos ’17 was the seventh overall speaker in Lincoln-Douglas debate out of more than 200 competitors and advanced to elimination rounds.

• Aarushi Sahejpal ’18 was a semi-finalist in congressional debate.

Coast Forensic League Individual Events Tournament • Shannon Miranda ’20 finished first in expository speaking.

• Kaitlyn Sierra ’17 finished second in expository speaking.

• Anisha Reimert ’19 was second in humorous interpretation.

• Aarushi Sahejpal ’18 finished fifth in national extemp.

• Samika Kikkeri ’17 finished sixth in international extemp.

Coast Forensic League State Qualifier: Individual Events Kaitlyn Sierra ’17 was the tournament champion in expository speaking and will move on to the State Tournament in April!

Stanford Invitational • Kaitlyn Sierra ’17 was the tournament champion in expository speaking.

• Talla Khelghati ’17 and Manush Mobarhan ’17 were semi-finalists and finished third in public forum.

• Aarushi Sahejpal ’18 was a finalist in congressional debate.

• Samika Kikkeri ’17 was a finalist in international extemp.

• The team finished in seventh place overall among all schools attending.

California Round Robin Talla Khelghati ’17 and Manush Mobarhan ’17 were semi-finalists in public forum among some of the elite teams across the country!

Berkeley Invitational • Kaitlyn Sierra ’17 was the tournament champion in Expository Speaking.

• Talla Khelghati ’17 and Manush Mobarhan ’17 were quarter-finalists in public forum, earning their fifth bid to the Tournament of Champions and solidifying their place in Presentation Debate history with the most bids of any individual or team ever! Talla was the third overall speaker and Manush was the sixth speaker out of more than 400 competitors at the tournament!

Campus Ministry

By Claire Hansen | Director of Campus Ministry This month begins with our final Junior Retreat of the year at the beautiful Presentation Center in Los Gatos. Led by senior peer ministers and a team of faculty, this overnight retreat is focused on growing in faith, prayer, integrity and commitment.

Another opportunity for prayer and reflection will be our all-school Holy Week Prayer Service on April 11. This year’s service will include a washing of the feet, which is taken from Jesus’ Last Supper in the Gospel of John. All parents are welcome to attend our school masses and prayer services.

After we return from Easter vacation, we will celebrate May Day (a little early) with an all-school assembly on April 28. This beautiful Presentation tradition honors the Blessed Virgin Mary with a prayer service focused on celebrating her “Yes!” to God. All are welcome.

Finally, keep an eye out for our retreat registration form which will be mailed to the homes of rising sophomores, juniors and seniors.

There are two retreat dates for each grade level. These retreats are free and open to students of all faith traditions. They are popular and fill up quickly, so get your forms in by the end of May.

www.presentationhs.org 5

Fashion Club

By Barb Purdy | Department Chair, Visual and Performing Arts Seven years ago, three students formed the Fashion Club at Presentation to learn more about the creative and business aspects of the fashion industry. The club gave rise to a new tradition at Presentation: featuring student-designed dresses and outfits in the annual fashion show benefiting the Endowment for Financial Aid. This year, 18 students will continue that tradition. Starting with sketches, the girls design and sew their own pieces for the runway.

The club is composed of freshmen and upper class officers.

This year, our focus has been on learning how to design our own clothes. This includes learning how to draw fashion figures and learning how to use a sewing machine. In the fall, Dori from Camp Fashionista inspired us by teaching us the correct proportions of the body for fashion illustration. Currently, our club is working on our service project, “Little Dresses for Africa.”

This organization provides relief for the most vulnerable children of Central Africa. Fashion Club members are using pillowcases to create dresses for this organization. Why pillowcases? The organization chose pillowcases because they were simple to sew, have hems and side seams and come in bright colors.

Dance Team

By Sara Fugate | Dance Team We are extremely proud of the Presentation Dance Team’s national championship-winning performance at the Contest of Champions in Orlando, Florida. For the third consecutive year, the team won overall titles in the medium and extra small divisions. Here is the complete list of the team’s success at nationals: • National Championship Titles: Extra Small and Medium • First Place: Medium Character, Extra Small Jazz, Character Dance • Second Place: Medium Jazz, Medium Lyrical • Third Place: Extra Small Contemporary Auditions for the 2017-18 team will be held June 5-9. For more information, email Sara Fugate at sfugate@presentationhs.org.

Our Spring Dance Concert will be held May 10-12 in the Valenzuela Theater. Enjoy performances by our national championship-winning Presentation Dance Team, Presentation Dance Company and our amazing third and fourth period dancers. Tickets will be available on April 10 at www.presentationhs.org/boxoffice.

Performing Arts

By Jim Houle | Performing Arts Director The Blue Plaid Players Take the Stage Don’t miss the latest musical revue from our loyal band of fundraising performers: From Stage and Screen, a tribute to the Golden Age musicals of Broadway and Hollywood. This production, written and produced by Dan D’ali, is being presented in our Valenzuela Theater March 31-April 9 and features vocal, dance and comedic talent from Pres alumnae, parents and our energetic theater boosters.

All six performances raise money for our thriving performing arts program! Visit www.presentationhs.org/boxoffice to purchase tickets. See you there!

Theater Camp at Pres Do you know a boy or girl between the ages of 12 and 17 who would benefit from some self-esteem, self-presentation or teamwork skills? Our summer theater camp, PresRep, is just the place.

Now open for registration online, this five-week camp runs 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Friday, from June 19-July 23, 2017.

Students will receive roles in our mainstage production, the Dr. Seuss-inspired musical: Seussical, as well as a second non-musical play. Additionally, classes are offered in comedy/improv, acting technique, dance and technical theater. Our campus is a creative, safe place for your student to spend his or her summer days. Lots of famous friendships are made and maintained as a result of the bonds made at PresRep, so why not consider our summer theater camp for your student? Simply go to our website, www.presrep.com, for all the details. Register your student today!

6

The Lantern | April 2017

Community Involvement

Counseling

During six weeks in the spring, Presentation students make crafts, sell baked goods and organize fundraisers to support the efforts of the Presentation Sisters in Nicaragua and Guatemala. Below, Claudia Suez ’17 reflects on her service trip to Nicaragua and the difference our Mission Drive efforts makes in the communities the Sisters serve.

We’ve all been there: the school/dance/mall/movie taxi. The door opens and closes as your teen relaxes into the security and serenity of your car. You query, “How was school/the presentation/the dance/movie/workout?” The scowl that answers you is a clear non-verbal message. “Fine,” she retorts as she dissolves into Snapchat.

Every year, I have helped raise money for Mission Drive, but I never stopped to think about why our donations mattered or who the funds affected. But, when I was given the opportunity to travel to Nicaragua with Presentation, I witnessed the impact firsthand.

Communication with your teenager is often a push-pull situation.

And no wonder! In their inevitable quest for independence from you (you want that, right?!) and as they build their own private sphere of existence, pulling conversation from your teen may be an ongoing challenge.

By Lindsay Swoboda | Director of Community Involvement

Packed in a truck with nine other girls as we drove over boulders and dirt roads, we visited a high school in Somotillo Each day, the students and staff did their best with only the bare necessities. To me, unfairness of it felt like a slap in the face. Yet, their lack of resources did not curb their creativity and dedication. Programs were tailored to help students learn about agriculture and productivity. It was impressive to see students using school time to learn more about their livelihood and craft.

Later, we visited San Ignacio de Loyola, a nearby elementary school. I have never been welcomed with such love and admiration. In addition to homemade banners with our names on them, the students presented each of us with acrostic poems that spelled out our names. The girl who wrote my poem is named Nidia. She reminded me of myself when I was in the fifth grade— a little on the quieter side with her dark brown hair pulled back. I can’t put into words what I felt as she read her poem to me. What struck me most was the sincerity of her words, particularly two lines: “Corazon lleno de amor” (Heart filled with love) and “Ahora y siempre te recordaremos” (Now and always we will remember you). In that moment, the sheltered bubble I have been living in my whole life burst. It clicked. I realized that all we donate and all of our tremendous effort during Mission Drive affects these students directly.

I went to Nicaragua for the service, the people, and to experience a community filled with love and compassion. I came back being able to find happiness in my surroundings, my family and my friends rather than finding happiness in materialistic things. Our work here at Presentation makes a difference thousands of miles away. Thank you for your support and generosity.

By Jean Meyer | College Counselor

But there is hope. Michael Riera, Ph.D, one of the country’s foremost authorities on understanding teens, and author of Staying Connected to Your Teenager, offers these tricks on keeping conversational with your teen: • Make a one-on-one dinner date with her to a special restaurant (not one of your usual places). Invent an occasion if you have to. Then, order for one another to get the conversation going.

• Give your teen a fair ration of “detox time” in the car.

Once at home, don’t despair when she disappears into the sanctity of her hallowed bedroom. This is completely age-appropriate behavior. Give her some time before you knock on the door.

• Model conversational behavior with other family members.

Put down your devices, especially at the dinner table.

• Parents of juniors and seniors will want to talk about college. Rather than pepper them with questions all week, set aside a mutually agreed upon time (e.g. Sunday at 7 p.m.) for twenty minutes to ask questions and to offer aid and support.

• Be there. Even if you are dead tired, make yourself available to your night owl teen--who often prove to be the most conversational at the most inconvenient times.

Be especially available during relaxed transition times (holidays, school vacations) and as they start or finish a new venture (e.g. job or travel).

• When all else fails, write them a note and slip it under their door. “I really appreciate the patience you showed with your sister today. She looks up to you so much and you are a great role model to her.” Don’t be surprised if you get a note in return!

Take heart. Though it may rarely be evident, you and your opinions do matter to your teen. You’ll probably never hear it directly, but know it to be true. Focus on your connections to your teen through patient communication practices.

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Athletics

By Stacey Mallison | Athletics Director

Varsity Home Games

Hello, Panthers!

Letter from the Principal

Parent Board

Dear Parents and Friends of Presentation,

That bright, warm (and oh so unfamiliar) object in sky is a sure sign that the school year is winding down. But don’t worry, there are still plenty of activities to finish the year off strong.

By Mary Miller '72 | Principal

The Board of Trustees recently approved the tuition for 2017-18.

It will be $19,580, representing an increase of 4.5%. We went into this budgeting process with the resolve to be as sensitive and conservative as possible with tuition. We are also committed to a commensurate increase in financial aid to assist families who need our help. Financial aid decisions were made in March and will be announced shortly. As you well know, Pres is faithful to its mission to educate and qualified young woman regardless of her ability to pay; we expect to award $2.3 million next year.

We are also dedicated to hiring and retaining the finest teachers and staff. That means providing a salary that enables them to live and work in the Bay Area. While the increase is relatively modest, it will maintain our competitive compensation package.

Tuition contracts must be turned in on or before April 10. For all returning students, a non-refundable deposit of $1,500 (that will be applied to tuition) is due May 1. Please meet this deadline as it reserves your daughter’s place for 2017-18. I am always available to discuss any financial concerns you may have; missing deadlines will only impede my ability to help you.

By the time this reaches you, we will be in the final weeks of Lent, preparing for the most holy and blessed celebration in the Catholic tradition—the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. I do hope you enjoy this sacred time of year with family and friends, reflecting on the hope and promise Easter brings and celebrating those relationships that exemplify God’s unconditional love for each one of us.

Happy Easter!

By Joel Dibble | Parent Board President | jcdibble17@gmail.com

First up is the 2017 Presentation Fashion Show, Let Yourself Blossom. What started with a couple of sewing machines and a handful of models in the Marian Stuckey Student Center has morphed into a spectacular production that is the main fundraiser for the Endowment for Financial Aid. Everyone is invited to participate by attending either the lunch or dinner show, making a donation, or volunteering to help out on the day of the show.

You can purchase tickets online or find more information at www.presentationhs.org/fashionshow. There is no school on April 7, so students are encouraged to attend and sit in the Student Gallery.

Next up is the annual Presentation Golf Tournament on Friday, May 12 at Cinnabar Hills Golf Club. It is a spectacular course and an excellent event for beginners and aficionados alike! Even if you are not a golfer, you can lend your support to this fun event in other ways! Please contact Matt Sunseri at matt.sunseri1@yahoo.com or Dave Bustamante at davbust58@comcast.net if you would like to help. Details and tickets are available on the Pres website under the Events tab.

The Presentation basketball and soccer teams both earned championship titles in the 2017 CCS DII Tournament. Both teams showed great resiliency and determination this winter as they battled through challenging schedules and injuries. Despite the obstacles, our Panthers rose to the challenge, stayed focused on their goals, and worked hard everyday to become CCS champions. Make sure to congratulate the teams and coaching staff for their success!

In addition to their success on the court and on the field, the basketball and soccer teams did an excellent job of managing their academics. In addition to practicing throughout school holidays, our winter sports teams must prepare for and take their final exams in the middle of the season. The basketball team earned a team GPA of 3.36 while our soccer team earned a team GPA of 3.55. Way to go, Panthers!

We are also very proud of our student-athletes who earned WCAL All-League Honors: Basketball • Ava Williams ’18: Second Team • Sharon Roldan ’18: Honorable Mention Soccer • Devin Ferguson ’18: First Team • Jayne Cowell ’18: First Team, WCAL Co-Midfielder of the Year • Amanda Avila ’19: Second Team • Jordan Karr ’20: Second Team • Emily Cook ’17: Honorable Mention

Swimming & Diving Thursday, April 6 vs. Sacred Heart Cathedral | 3 p.m.

Wednesday, April 26 vs. Archbishop Mitty High School | 3 p.m.

Track & Field Wednesday, April 5 vs. St. Francis High School at Bellarmine | 3 p.m.

Wednesday, April 26 vs. Sacred Heart Cathedral at Bellarmine | 3 p.m.

Softball Thursday, April 6 vs. Archbishop Mitty High School | 4 p.m.

Tuesday, April 25 vs. St. Ignatius College Prep | 4 p.m.

Thursday, April 27 vs. St. Francis High School | 4 p.m.

Friday, April 28 vs. Homestead High School | 4 p.m.

Please join me in congratulating the Athletic Department’s Volunteers of the Year, Tom and Patty Evans. As active Booster board members, this duo has been extremely helpful and supportive of our Athletic Department. We are very thankful to be part of this amazing Presentation community where so many people are willing to lend a helping hand.

Go Panthers!

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The Lantern | April 2017

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April 2017 SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

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For complete calendar visit www.presentationhs.org/calendar

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3 From Stage and Screen, 7:30 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

9

LAMP Meeting, 7 p.m., Jenvey House

Fashion Show Model Segment Training, 3-9 p.m., Miller Athletic Complex

10

Easter Break

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5

6 Parent Board Meeting, 7 p.m., Library

Fashion Show Model Segment Training, 3-9 p.m., Miller Athletic Complex

Speech Festival, 11:05 a.m., Miller Athletic Complex

Fashion Show Final Run-Through, 5:30-11 p.m., Santa Clara Convention Center Booster Board Mtg., 7-9 p.m., Library

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13

Financial Aid Night for Junior Parents, 7 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

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23

TADA!, 6:30 p.m., Reception Room

11

From Stage and Screen, 2 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

16

4

18 Easter Break

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Board of Trustees Meeting, 3:30 p.m., Library

Fashion Show Committee Victory Party, 7 p.m., Library

Fashion Show, 11 a.m., 6 p.m., Santa Clara Convention Center

From Stage and Screen, 7:30 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

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20

Easter Break

25

7

Easter Break

19 Easter Break

26 Incoming Frosh BBQ, 5:30 p.m., Courtyard Alumnae Council, 6 p.m., Jenvey House

SATURDAY

8 From Stage and Screen Gala, 5:30 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

Easter Break

Easter Break

the

LANTERN Presentation High School Parent Newsletter | April 2017

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21

College 27Admissions Case

From Stage and Screen, 7:30 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

Easter Break

22 Easter Break

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Studies, 6:30 p.m., St. Francis High School

Senior Choir Showcase, 7 p.m., Valenzuela Theater

Math & Science Colloquium, 7 p.m., Marian Stuckey Student Center

May Day Prayer Service, 9:30 a.m., Courtyard

Easter Break

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APRIL 2017 Presentation High School The Lantern 2281 Plummer Avenue San Jose, CA 95125 The Lantern | April 2017 1